The Victorian Public Sector Commission (VPSC) recognises the definition of disability as:
Persons with disabilities include those who have long-term (lasting 6 months or more) physical, mental health, intellectual, neurological or sensory impairments which in interaction with various attitudinal and environmental barriers may hinder their full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others.
This definition is based on descriptions recognised by the United Nations Convention on the Rights of People with Disability (UNCRPD) and Australian government. This ‘Convention’ defines disability within the context of the social model of disability, which recognises that negative attitudes and environmental barriers impact on people’s ability to participate equitably in work and life. The Convention contains principles of human rights and capability building so that persons with disabilities have agency to contribute to social and public life.
The Victorian Government also acknowledges and values the social model of disability.
The VPSC Accessibility Action Plan is underpinned by this shared understanding of the social model of disability – to remove barriers to the workplace. This is consistent with the values we hold as a sector. We respect the human rights of people with disability.